Practicality is really number one to beginners. A Flute which is a good comfortable fit to your hands is the most important requirement when it comes to choosing a flute. I have normal large male hands with average sized fingers and can play all of the flutes I make with ease but I have had some practice. When I began playing the NAF many years ago I started on an F# flute. There is no sense in starting on a Low or Bass flute, unless you have wind instrument experinnce and are sure you can manage the size. To a beginner they are not as playable as the mid keys and therefore will be cumbersome for those whose hands are not used to playing flutes and will generally slow the progression rate at which you learn. I have put together the following measurement chart to give you an idea of the sizes of the flutes.

 

For those who are beginning but want to choose a lower flute I would first recommend to start with a mid flute then once you have become used to a mid flute you will be ready to try a lower flute, considering that flute playing is quite addictive it is quite likley you will aquire another flute as your playing progresses and you feel you want to expand. Higher flutes are less difficult and should be considered by beginners also if they are drawn to those keys. Middle keys are by far the most popular and safe choices for beginners. Beginning on a drone will take a little more effort and development of your breath, I don’t discourage people if they are drawn to one and many beginners are which is great as they are fantastic fun and really resonate with certain people, I just like people to know what to expect. Having said that Drone players usually progress rapidly. I think the NAF in general is so inspiriing that people are excited to progress and learn more and deepen the connection with thier instrument and themselves. The main benefit of a drone besides it's uniqueness is that one gets a drone and a flute together but they can be pleyed as a flute and as a drone. This due to the two mouth holes that with some basic lip movements can opened to breath and shut off flute also, generally it is the drone that is shut off and a solo on the flute side can be played and then the drone can be bought back in as one feels during the song. The same rules apply in this case with a practical key choice so if you do decide on a drone then consider middle keys as with a flute, remember the air they draw increased the lower they go just like a flute but that dosent mean you need to have big or super lungs necessarily, it just means you need to play your phrases in tune with your breath capacity which is easy and just happens as you get a feel for the instrument. So Drones are great fin for most adolesents and adults alike. Flutes are easier to play for beginners but wether a drone or a flute you will get used to it with time so make the choice you feel is right for your wants and needs.